10 South Carolina Beachfront Restaurants Serving Shrimp With A Side Of Serenity

Beyond its postcard-worthy beaches, South Carolina’s coastline is dotted with restaurants where seafood is served as fresh as the ocean breeze.

Picture sinking your fork into a plate of just-caught shrimp while the waves keep time in the background.

These spots blend local flavor with waterfront beauty for meals you’ll never forget.

1. Sea Captain’s House – Myrtle Beach’s Historic Seafood Haven

Originally built as a vacation home in 1930, this oceanfront cottage-turned-restaurant serves some of the best shrimp and grits on the coast. The wraparound porch offers panoramic ocean views that complement their award-winning seafood.

Morning visitors catch spectacular sunrises while enjoying breakfast shrimp dishes. Their signature She-Crab soup pairs perfectly with the sound of waves just steps from your table.

2. RipTydz Oceanfront Grille – Rooftop Revelry With Remarkable Views

Perched right on the Myrtle Beach boardwalk, RipTydz offers multi-level dining with the star attraction being its rooftop bar. The colorful, modern space creates a perfect backdrop for their Lowcountry shrimp boil.

Sunsets transform the sky into a painter’s palette while you sip signature cocktails. Their grilled shrimp skewers come with a zesty citrus marinade that captures the essence of coastal Carolina cuisine.

3. Pier 14 Restaurant & Lounge – Dining Above The Atlantic

Walking out onto Pier 14 feels like stepping aboard a stationary cruise ship. Suspended above the Atlantic, this restaurant delivers an authentic over-water dining experience unlike any other in Myrtle Beach.

The gentle rocking sensation adds to the maritime charm as you enjoy their coconut shrimp. I once watched dolphins playing below while savoring their perfectly fried shrimp basket – a memory that epitomizes coastal dining perfection.

4. Wicked Tuna – Fresh Catches At 2nd Avenue Pier

The motto “hook to plate” isn’t just marketing at Wicked Tuna – it’s their genuine philosophy. Situated at the end of 2nd Avenue Pier, they source directly from their local fleet based in Murrells Inlet.

Their peel-and-eat shrimp arrives seasoned with old bay and served with a view that stretches to the horizon.

The restaurant’s modern interior features floor-to-ceiling windows, ensuring every table has an ocean panorama.

5. Driftwood Restaurant – Cherry Grove’s Pier Gem

The unpretentious Driftwood Restaurant sits atop Cherry Grove Pier, offering straightforward seafood without fancy frills. What makes it special is the authentic connection to the fishing happening right outside its windows.

The kitchen sources its seafood from licensed local suppliers while anglers cast lines from the pier outside.

My grandfather took me here as a child, and twenty years later, their butter-poached shrimp still tastes exactly the same – proof that some traditions need no improvement.

6. Coconut Joe’s Beach Grill – Isle of Palms’ Tropical Escape

Palm trees sway around the open-air deck at Coconut Joe’s, creating an island vibe that perfectly matches their Caribbean-influenced menu.

The colorful umbrellas and thatched roof areas enhance the tropical atmosphere just steps from Isle of Palms beach.

Their jerk-spiced shrimp tacos deliver a spicy kick that pairs wonderfully with frozen drinks. Kids love watching pelicans dive for fish in the ocean while parents appreciate the relaxed, family-friendly environment.

7. The Windjammer – Isle of Palms’ Legendary Beach Bar With Stellar Seafood

Known primarily as a live music venue, The Windjammer surprises visitors with seafood that rivals dedicated restaurants. The weathered wooden deck sits practically on the sand, creating an authentic beach bar experience.

Their buffalo shrimp has fueled countless dance sessions and beach volleyball games. During a summer storm last year, we huddled under their covered porch watching lightning illuminate the ocean while devouring their famous shrimp baskets – somehow making them taste even better.

8. Pier 101 Restaurant & Bar – Folly Beach’s Casual Oceanfront Hangout

Sitting squarely on Folly Beach Pier, this laid-back eatery embodies the relaxed spirit of Folly Beach. The recently renovated space offers modern amenities while maintaining the charm that makes this beach town special.

Salty breezes complement their garlic shrimp served with crusty bread perfect for sopping up sauce. Surfers catch waves directly in front of the restaurant, providing free entertainment with your meal.

9. Coast, Oceanfront Dining – Hilton Head’s Sea Pines Beach Club Treasure

Nestled within the exclusive Sea Pines community, Coast delivers sophisticated beachfront dining with unobstructed Atlantic views. The restaurant’s design features natural materials and a neutral palette that doesn’t compete with the stunning scenery outside.

Their shrimp and grits elevates the Lowcountry classic with smoked tomato broth. I proposed to my wife here as the sun set over the ocean – the staff arranged champagne and a special shrimp appetizer that made the moment perfect.

10. Tiki Hut – Hilton Head’s Iconic Beach Bar With Surprising Culinary Chops

Sand literally covers the floor at this quintessential beach bar attached to the Beach House Resort. Live music plays daily while patrons dance barefoot or lounge in Adirondack chairs with toes in the sand.

Their pineapple-glazed shrimp skewers deliver unexpected culinary sophistication from such a casual spot.

The circular bar ensures everyone gets ocean views while sipping tropical drinks that arrive adorned with tiny paper umbrellas.